The city of Edmonton, Alberta, is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of a beloved father, husband, and former Canadian Football League (CFL) player, Ben Fairbrother, who passed away in a fatal accident on September 13, 2024. The crash, which occurred at the intersection of 118th Avenue and 139th Street, involved a motorcycle driven by Fairbrother and an SUV. Despite the swift response of emergency services, the 51-year-old succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital, leaving behind a devastated family and a community in mourning.
The tragedy sent shockwaves through Edmonton, where Ben Fairbrother was not only known for his athletic prowess but also for his unwavering dedication to his family. Ben’s wife, Melissa Linnen-Fairbrother, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, expressing the unimaginable grief that has now enveloped her family. “I’m devastated to let everyone know that last night my girls lost their dad in a terrible accident. Please keep Ella and Georgia in your hearts as they navigate this unimaginable loss,” she wrote, referring to their two young daughters.
The Fatal Crash and Initial Investigation
The accident took place late Friday afternoon, as Fairbrother was riding his motorcycle east on 118th Avenue. According to preliminary reports from the Edmonton Police Service (EPS), the collision occurred when Fairbrother’s motorcycle struck an SUV that was heading south on 139th Street. The intersection, a familiar part of the city’s infrastructure, became the backdrop for a scene of devastation as authorities and emergency responders worked frantically to save Fairbrother’s life. Despite their best efforts, the injuries he sustained proved fatal.
Police are still piecing together the exact circumstances of the crash, but speed is believed to have played a role in the accident. In a statement, an EPS representative said, “The motorcycle’s speed is believed to be a factor in this collision,” though the investigation is ongoing to determine all contributing factors. The driver of the SUV was not seriously injured, and the vehicle’s passenger sustained only minor injuries.
Authorities are working to gather any additional witness statements, and investigators are expected to review nearby surveillance footage to gain further insight into the moments leading up to the collision. Traffic on 118th Avenue was temporarily shut down as police conducted a full investigation of the scene, and first responders cleared the wreckage. In the hours following the accident, the intersection was marked with tributes and flowers, as locals began to pay their respects to the fallen father and former athlete.
A Life Well-Lived, But Tragically Cut Short
Ben Fairbrother’s death marks the sudden end of a life that was defined by love, commitment, and an extraordinary passion for football. Born and raised in Regina, Saskatchewan, Ben spent his early years cultivating a deep love for sports. His natural talent on the football field would eventually lead him to a career in the CFL, where he made a name for himself as a standout offensive lineman for the Saskatchewan Roughriders from 1997 to 2000, before moving on to play for the BC Lions from 2001 to 2003.
His time in the CFL was marked by a combination of physical strength, intelligence, and tenacity on the field. Teammates recall Ben’s dedication to the sport, as well as his role as a mentor to younger players. “Ben was not just a great player; he was a leader,” said a former teammate. “He always looked out for the younger guys on the team, teaching them the ropes and helping them grow, not just as athletes but as men.”
The football community was left reeling by the news of his death. The Rod Pedersen Show, a sports talk show that frequently covered CFL news and updates, posted a heartfelt tribute following the accident: “We are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of our beloved friend Ben Fairbrother. Ben was a standout offensive lineman with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and BC Lions. May God give his family strength at this time.”
After retiring from professional football, Ben continued to live a life filled with purpose. He was known for his unwavering love for his family, and it was clear to all who knew him that his wife Melissa and daughters Ella and Georgia were the center of his world. Though Ben had achieved success on the gridiron, it was his role as a father and husband that defined his later years. He was deeply involved in his daughters’ lives, often seen at their school events and extracurricular activities, and he cherished every moment he spent with them.
The Fairbrother family had made Edmonton their home for several years, and during that time, Ben became an active member of the community. He was known for his generosity and willingness to help others, often volunteering at local events and supporting charitable causes. Friends described Ben as a man with a big heart, always ready to lend a hand to those in need, whether it was offering a kind word of advice or physically helping out with community projects.
A Community in Mourning
As news of the accident spread, friends, family members, and former colleagues began to express their sorrow and disbelief at the loss of someone who had been such a positive force in their lives. Many took to social media to offer condolences and share memories of Ben’s infectious spirit and kindness.
“Ben was one of the good ones,” wrote a longtime friend. “He was the type of guy who could make you laugh no matter what was going on in your life. He always put others first, and I can’t believe he’s gone.”
Local football clubs, including youth teams, held moments of silence in honor of Ben. His legacy as an athlete and mentor left an indelible mark on the next generation of football players, many of whom looked up to him as a role model. Coaches who had the privilege of working with Ben remembered him as a dedicated individual, both on and off the field. “He had a way of inspiring the people around him, especially the younger players,” said one coach. “Ben made you want to be better, and that’s something we’ll always carry with us.”
Family and friends also gathered to offer their support to Melissa and her daughters, who are now faced with navigating the unimaginable loss of their beloved husband and father. In her public announcement, Melissa’s pain was palpable, but so was the outpouring of love and support from the community. Messages of solidarity flooded in, with many offering assistance, prayers, and comfort in any way they could.
A Broader Conversation on Road Safety and Motorcycles
Ben’s tragic death has also reignited conversations around road safety, particularly the dangers faced by motorcyclists. While the specific details of the accident remain under investigation, experts often point out that motorcyclists are disproportionately at risk in collisions with larger vehicles. Motorcycle accidents frequently result in serious injuries or fatalities, even when both parties are following the rules of the road.
In Edmonton, traffic collisions involving motorcycles have seen a worrying increase in recent years. Advocacy groups for motorcyclist safety have long pushed for increased awareness among drivers, as well as the implementation of additional safety measures to protect those on two wheels. “We need to remember that motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than drivers in enclosed vehicles,” said a local road safety advocate. “Education and vigilance are key. We need to continue spreading awareness about sharing the road and ensuring that motorcyclists are given the space and respect they deserve.”
The EPS has also reminded the public about the importance of adhering to speed limits and being mindful of traffic laws, particularly in areas with high traffic volumes or complex intersections. Investigators working on Ben’s case have emphasized that while speed is being considered as a factor, the full picture will only become clear once the investigation is complete.
Moving Forward in the Wake of Tragedy
As the investigation continues and funeral arrangements are made, the community of Edmonton is left to grapple with the devastating loss of a man who was loved by so many. The Fairbrother family is preparing for an incredibly difficult journey ahead, but they are surrounded by a network of support from friends, teammates, and neighbors who are determined to honor Ben’s legacy.
While nothing can replace the void left by his absence, the impact Ben made on his family, friends, and community will continue to be felt for years to come. His legacy as a loving father, devoted husband, and cherished friend will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Funeral arrangements for Ben Fairbrother are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, the family has asked for privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss. For those wishing to honor Ben’s memory, a GoFundMe page has been set up to support Melissa, Ella, and Georgia during this difficult time.
As Edmonton reflects on this tragedy, the legacy of Ben Fairbrother will continue to serve as a reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment, living life with purpose, and spreading love and kindness to those around us. His life, though tragically cut short, was one of deep meaning and connection, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
